Trigger Point Dry Needling

Trigger point dry needling is a treatment technique, which uses small filament type needles to release tight muscles with the goal of permanently reducing muscle pain and dysfunction. Also known as; trigger point therapy, Trigger Point Needling, TPDN, TDN, trigger point, dry needling and IMS (intramuscular stimulation). Physiatrists are now using this technique around the world to effectively treat acute and chronic orthopedic and musculoskeletal conditions. TDN can help you more efficiently treat your patients and improve your outcomes.

Trigger points are painful, hyperirritable, tight spots in skeletal muscles that cause a common condition known as myofascial pain syndrome. The diagnosis is made by a physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor based on patients’ medical history and physical examination results. Trigger point injections inactivate myofascial trigger points, and often are used in combination with other therapy and exercises. Injections typically are performed using local anesthetics with or without corticosteroids or cortisone. Certain cases require the use of dry needling techniques (nothing is injected) or of botulinum toxin (Botox®).

For more information about physiatry, physical rehabilitation medicine, medical conditions or to setup an appointment, contact Stan Mathew, MD.